Walking Gear Tips
Rain or shine, warm or cold, walking outside can be a year-round activity. But before you head out, you’ll want to make sure you are dressed for the elements. It can be a very uncomfortable walk if you don’t have on the right gear! Here are some tips to help:
- Layer! Layer! Layer! At certain times of the year you will need more layers than others. These “rules” will keep you comfortable in all conditions:
- Base layer: should be light and breathable. Choose a fabric that will draw sweat away from the skin so it can evaporate and cool you without making you feel wet. Stay away from cottons, as they retain moisture. A good material in cold weather is polypropylene, and in warm weather clothing made of CoolMax or Dryfit works well.
- Insulating layer: adds warmth and provides temperature control. This layer should be easy to remove in case you get too warm.
- Outer layer: protects you from the elements (wind, rain, etc.) This layer should be made of a breathable material that allows sweat to evaporate. It should also be waterproof. There’s nothing worse than trying to walk when you’re all wet!
- Socks: made of a breathable material, not cotton. Again, you want your feet to stay dry. This can help with comfort and preventing blisters. Next to shoes, socks can be your most important piece of walking gear.
- Hat and gloves: A ventilated hat during the summer can protect your head from the sun. A winter hat will help regulate your body temperature, since one quarter of your body heat escapes through your head. Gloves also help regulate your body temperature.
- Supportive sports bra: Wear a comfortable sports bra to give your growing breasts support. Two bras can be worn for extra support. If breastfeeding, try to walk after feeding or pumping so your breasts will not feel uncomfortable.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: Even in the winter the sun can get pretty bright and intense. Protect your eyes and skin from those damaging rays!
- Shoes: lightweight and breathable material.
- Find a shoe with a thick, flexible sole and good arch support.
- Make sure they fit well. There should be adequate room in the toe box- a thumbnail’s width between your toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should not slip.
- Walk around the store to be sure they fit well. Go shoe shopping later in the day when your foot is the largest. Once you make the purchase, wear them around your house for a day or two (without going outside) to determine comfort while you are still able to return them.
- Keep track of the number of miles you walk in each pair. One pair of walking shoes should last about 300-600 miles, assuming you only wear them for walking and not other activities.
